Later School Start Times In Effect In Many US Schools; Students Performance And Attendance Show Improvements

At the opening of classes this year, several schools in the United States have opted to push school start times at a later schedule. Observers note that doing so has brought a noticeable improvement in the students' performance and attendance.

Later school start times have become the subject of debate in many communities for years. However, many parents now say that they see that it's actually a good move.

With later school times, some parents expressed that they no longer have to drag their children from the bed to go to school. Teachers also note that the students are more alert in classes, according to Today.

Further, students in later school start times are also able to have a proper breakfast so that they are more energized in classes, reports Business Insider. Students also get to keep a regular routine, including a solid bedtime schedule. Since the kids start their day less groggy or feeling worn out, they are able to accomplish more.

An ideal school time schedule means that kids prepare for classes at around 7:30 a.m. to get to their school by 8:00 or 8:30 a.m. In the old schedule, kids usually prepare by 6:00 a.m. to get to classes by 7:00 a.m. The extra hour has brought a big difference. 

The Baltimore Sun reports on the improvement in students' attendance and performance in classes since the Howard County Public Schools adopted later school start times this school year. Tardiness and absenteeism have gone down and the new time schedule has benefitted disadvantaged students who sometimes miss early bus routes and have no other alternatives to get to school. Now, they don't have to miss classes and are able to participate in the lessons better.

Start School Later cites that 44 states have so far been observing later school start times this school year. Meanwhile, other districts are still mulling over pushing later school start times because while it can help the kids academically, it could put impact after-school activities that would have to start late as well.

Where do you side on this issue, parents? Do you prefer a later school time start for your kids? Talk to us in the comments!